CRD Sensing

Problem Addressed

Remote sensing contributes to environmental and structural monitoring, in large areas and in harsh environments. While the cavity ring-dow (CRD) technique is not suited for satellite-based remote sensing, it may play an important role in ground-based sensing. Yet, current solutions for enabling remote sensing using the CRD technique comprise the inclusion of optical devices such as the optical circulator.  

Conventional CRD configuration, is not an attractive solution for remote sensing applications, as it needs two fibre paths, one for signal transmission and the other for signal reception. This configuration, however, is not compatible with remote sensing needs, such as the portability, and the ability to operate in diverse and dynamic environments.

Technology 

Our solution is CRD Sensing a new linear optical fibre configuration that is compatible, with the development of compact and portable solutions.  

CRD Sensing enables remote sensing using commercial equipment such as the Optical Time-Domain Reflectometer (OTDR), further enabling a more efficient, compact and easy handling sensing system.

Advantages

Innovative – use of OTDR for sensor interrogation in a new set of scenarios; 

Adaptable - operates with any intensity-based optical fibre sensor; 

Compact – compatible with OTDRs’ portability;  

Sensitive - due to its linear cavity; 

Versatile - ready to monitor physical and biological parameters, either in liquid or gas medium; 

User-friendly - easy-handling sensing system. 

Possible Applications

• OTDR market: promoting an expansion of its applications; 
• Environmental control: Sensing: CO2 measuring in mining and Oil&Gas industries; 
• Infrastructure monitoring: Structural integrity evaluation.